Map of England showing where the Meacham arms are recorded
The Meacham arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in York.
Yorkshire is the largest of the English counties, and it held more gentry families than any other. Land there was split among a great many households rather than a few, so a great many of them carried arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Meacham arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Meacham Family in England
The surname Meacham is an English habitational name that likely originated from a specific place name in the northern regions of England. By the early 17th century, the family had established a notable presence in the historic city of York. Records confirm that members of the Meacham family were living in this area by 1620, a time when York served as a major center for trade and religious life. The name itself is thought to be derived from Old English roots, possibly describing someone who lived near a meadow or a specific type of enclosure. As the family grew, they became part of the local fabric of the city, contributing to the community life that defined York during the early Stuart period.
Meacham Meaning & Related Branches
Root word
Mecceham
Old English words for meadow and homestead or village.
This name
MeachamDerived from a locational surname referring to someone living at a meadow homestead.
also spelled
Meachum
Mecham
Related arms
Mechamvariant spelling
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Bardsley, Charles Wareing, A Dictionary of English and Welsh Surnames, 1901
Reaney, P.H., A Dictionary of British Surnames, 1958
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York Diocesan Probate Records, 1620
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fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
lionCourage, strength and royalty
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
lionCourage, strength and royalty
escallopThe pilgrim's shell, and a long journey made
